Citation for the award of Croix de Guerre with Bronze Star, London Gazette, Tuesday, 8th October 1918: ‘On the 16th March 1918, whilst on duty in a town subject to a violent bombardment, he carried to safety injured civilians and soldiers buried under the debris of a house destroyed by shells and still under bombardment carried two injured to hospital. He showed an outstanding contempt for danger and by his attitude and example contributed to the maintenance of calm amongst the population’.

On 29th January 1919, Bevan journeyed to Le Havre in extremely harsh weather. It is believed that this brought on a condition that eventually proved fatal. His death certificate records the cause of death as “broncho pneumonia, brought on by exposure while on duty”.

With many thanks to Adam Watts for providing both the photograph and additional information on William Bevan.